Our immense energy needs are all around us–transportation fuels to move people and goods, electricity to power our buildings and manufacturing, natural gas to heat the air and water in our homes, and energy embodied in the goods we buy and used to grow the food we eat. Energy issues and climate change are closely interrelated.
As energy supply and pricing become more volatile and uncertain, strategies to reduce reliance on non-renewable energy sources are becoming even more critical. Energy usage, both type and amount, influences the extent and rate of global climate change, while climate change influences weather conditions that affect energy use.
Energy Efficiency and Conservation
Energy efficiency and conservation provide the best opportunity to reduce our dependence on fossil fuels and reduce our GHG emissions. Learn more here.
Water conservation is closely related to energy conservation. More than half the electricity used by the City for its operations is to pump, treat, and move drinking water. Learn more about the City's water conservation program, including free technical assistance, rebates, and incentives.
Renewable Energy
Renewable energy may be the right choice for buildings once they have achieved high levels of energy efficiency. Solar, wind, geothermal, wave, biomass, and small-scale hydro are considered renewable energy resources in Oregon. With an abundance of these resources, it makes sense to capitalize on them when possible. Up front investment in renewables will pay "dividends" for many years to come, particularly in light of rising energy costs, unpredictable energy markets, and political instability
Lake Oswego homeowners had an opportunity to go solar with Solarize West Linn-Lake Oswego. Learn more about solar energy resources here. Find additional renewable energy resources here.
Climate Change and Greenhouse Gas Emissions
A major concern to the Lake Oswego community and beyond is a changing climate due to increased greenhouse gas emissions (GHG) from human activity. Learn more about climate change, Lake Oswego's GHG emissions, and actions we can take.
Find additional climate change resources here.
Electric Vehicle Charging Stations
The City has installed electric vehicle charging stations in downtown Lake Oswego as part of two state-wide electric vehicle (EV) charging station infrastructure projects. Learn more about the projects here.
